Swastika–a Symbol of Good and Evil

SOCS350-ON November 7, 2008 THE SWASTIKA-A SYMBOL OF GOOD AND EVIL The hackenkreuz, gamma cross, gammadion, St. Brigit’s cross, fylfot cross and swastika are all references to one symbol, the oldest cross in the world. This symbol is represented several thousand years B. C. in multiple cultures. It is not until the 1900’s that the term â€Å"swastika† elicits such a fervor of emotions. It is interesting to contrast the viewpoints of the Chinese community versus the enormity of human passion that ensues in a Jewish community when the symbol is displayed. As cited in Chinese Symbols – Common Five Asian Attributes,http:symbolic-meanings. com/2007/11/01chinese-symbols-commonAncient Chinese symbols and their meanings are a product of a very savvy people who understood the human need to progress in their conjunction with their propensity to link positive change with visual/allegorical concepts. The Chinese believe that crises in one’s life bring the opportunity for change. Symbolism is incorporated in the kanji, more commonly referred to as Chinese characters. Kanji, itself means both crises and opportunity. As many people of China embrace the Buddhist religion, it is an opportunity to discuss the swastika from this point of view. As cited in ReligionFacts; â€Å" The Swastika Symbol in Buddhism† htt//symbolic-meanings. com/2007/11/01chinese-symbols-common Page 2 Swastika In Buddhism, the swastika signifies auspiciousness and good fortune as well as the Buddha’s footprints and the Buddha’s heart. The swastika is said to contain the whole mind of the Buddha and can often be found imprinted on the chest, feet or palms of Buddha images. It is also the first of the 65 auspicious symbols on the footprint of the Buddha. The swastika will also be found in homes, on the doorways to temples, at the beginning of books, in decorative borders and in clothing as well as being carved into Chinese coins. The swastika is seen as a symbol of luck and life. As cited in NewsFinder. org/site/more/swastika â€Å"The Oldest Known Symbol† In Nazi Germany, the swastika became the national symbol. In 1910, a poet and nationalist, Guido von List suggested that the swastika be a symbol for all anti Semitic organizations. On August 7, 1920, at the Salzburg Congress, this flag became the official emblem of the Nazi Party. The actual drawing of the thousands of year old swastika remained the same with one exception after the adoption by the Nazi’s—the exclusive use of the colors black, red and white. The swastika holds a vivid, powerful vision for those of the Jewish community. The impact though now changes from positive and serene as seen with the Chinese community to that of conjuring up memories of the holocaust, a time of horror and hate. The brief appropriation by the Nazi’s of the swastika has forever destroyed the positive a Page 3 Swastika and serene interpretation of this symbol for much of the world but especially for those of Hebrew belief. So deeply imbedded in the minds of those with an ancestry to Judaism that to merely see the swastika is to re-live the stories of the holocaust, the inhumanity and despair. So powerful a symbol is that the swastika can create havoc on one’s limbic system. Though fewer victims are left now from this reign of terror, the legacy lives on to this day and assuredly shall for many generations to come. Two cultures, two moments in time, two opposing interpretations as related to a simple drawing have been discussed. The power is of course not in the drawing, but in the meaning perceived by the drawing. In one culture we see the swastika as life, in the other we see the swastika as a vile destruction of life.

Malcolm X Essay

1.What details of the events has each writer selected to focus on? Each writer selected to focus on the person that Malcolm X was overall. I believe that they put so much emphasis on the events that took place up until his assassination to show how important he was. Each person meant what his purpose was in the ballroom that day. Each writer also mentioned how many people were there to show his importance also. One crucial detail was that Malcolm X was shot by a member of his own race. 2.How has each writer organized the details that have been selected? Each writer organized the details as if they were watching a television show. They presented the end result first. Then they explained what led to that outcome. Afterwards they explained the reaction the assassination. I can relate to the way they organized the details. When I witness or find something out, I normally say what happened. For example, â€Å"Amber, the car is broken.† Of course the next question would be, how? 3.How does each writer interpret Malcolm X, his followers, the gunmen, and the significance of the assassination? Each writer perceived Malcolm X to be a leader, respected by many. They showed how relaxed he was when the argument began. His followers were in shock because he showed them how to be calm and control themselves through hard times. The gunmen were perceived as someone Malcolm X had problems with in the past. The assassination was shocking because he was killed by a black man when he focused on the mistreatment of the whites. 4.How has each writer used language to express his or her perspectives and to influence the thinking of the reader? Each writer used language by explaining the emotions of everyone when the assassination occurred. The writers wrote in a way to show how important Malcolm X life was. I think that expressing how you felt on a situation is the best way to connect to writers. Your feelings can help others relate.

Shea's One of a Kind Boutique Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Shea's One of a Kind Boutique - Term Paper Example Role of Technology in the Effectiveness and Efficiency of the Business Technology can be an important factor in the effectiveness and efficiency of a business if applied properly. In the boutique business, technology would be used smartly in order to make the business more effective and more efficient. A central information system will be set up and all the terminals in the business would be connected to each other. Any entry of data in one terminal would automatically update the data in all the terminals, thus the information would be centralized (Gottschalk, 2007). Use of barcodes will be made and each item in the outlets will be assigned a unique barcode. The barcode will hold the essential information such as price and name of the item. The entry of the data would not be done manually but it will be automated through the use of barcode readers and this information will be updated in the central servers. In case of a sale, the invoice will be generated once the barcode is entered in the system. Thus, the item will be moved from the inventory records and it will be recorded as sold. Another use of technology would be the placement of trackers on the items, specially the items that cost more, in order to ensure that the items are not moved from the inventory unless proper recording has been done in the system in this regard. This control system would also ensure that the items are not stolen from the boutique. Cloud Computing Cloud computing is the sharing of software, information and other utilities over a network among computers and other devices. Cloud computing is a relatively new concept but it is proving to be highly essential for the businesses where centralization of information is becoming necessary. Cloud computing is a combination of infrastructure, platform and applications. Infrastructure include the network, storage and servers; platform includes the database, identity and object storage and the applications include the monitoring, communication, content and financial information. Users access the cloud based applications from their devices using the network or if they do not have access to the network, they can access it over the internet if the network allows virtual access. Cloud computing allows the management to run the business even from remote locations. In this manner, the business remains uninterrupted even when the core management is unavailable (Miller, 2008). For the boutique business, cloud computing can play a very important role. The owners of the business can keep track of all the records in real time without even being required to be available in the premises of the boutique all the time. Another positive aspect of the cloud computing services is that they can be accessed from mobile devices too. Through virtual access, the owners of the business can keep track of all the transactions and financial data of the business even when they are on the move. The major weakness associated with cloud computing in the business is the threat of illegitimate intervention and leakage of information. Since all the records are centralized on the cloud database, any intervention into the network may cause a theft of the confidential records. Technology and Confidential Information Almost all the businesses have some trade secrets and certain records which are not meant to be seen by outsiders or the competitors. The confidentiality

Lideship 3 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Lideship 3 - Essay Example It is important to choose a career that fits one’s aptitudes, skills, personality and motivational focus. Says Heidi Grant Halvorson, â€Å"More than a decade of research shows that when people experience a fit between their own motivation and the way they work, they are not only more effective, but they also find their work more interesting and engaging, and value it more.† (Halvorson, 2013) Motivational focus is the sum of the strengths and weaknesses that each one’s personality is made up of. In addition to motivational focus, one needs to probe the opportunities that exist for the career one chooses as well as the educational and training needs involved. Having researched these things thoroughly, I have come to the conclusion that the career that I would like and one that fits me best would be that of a police officer. It is so easy to say choose something that you like. However this is more easily said than done. It is important to investigate every aspect of the career and juxtapose it with what one’s own needs and abilities are. To choose the right career one needs to invest some time on self-assessment. It is necessary to introspect on one’s strengths and weaknesses as well as the skills one possesses and what one really expects out of the career. I have done a thorough self-analysis with the help of various tools to find where my focus lies. I am also willing to invest in further training. In this context experts agree that people can be broadly divided into two categories. Although all of us have both the promotion as well as the prevention focus in some degree, while choosing a career one needs to find out which one is the more dominant one to enable one to make the right choice. Each of these focuses have distinct strengths and weaknesses, hence the exercise of finding out which category one belongs to enables one to gauge the kind of career that would suit him/her best. The promotion focused person

Decision support systems Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Decision support systems - Article Example Almost 2.8 people have been left homeless and 2.3 million are without food. The direct damage caused by the earthquake is estimated to be about US$2.3 billion. Private housing suffered the maximum damage to the extent of about US$1.03 billion. Of the total housing stock, 84 percent was damaged or destroyed in AJK and 36 percent was damaged or destroyed in NWFP. The transport, education, and agriculture and livestock sectors suffered damages to the extent of US$340 million, US$335 million, and US$218 million, respectively. The cost of reconstruction and restoration of services is estimated to be US$3.5 billion, with housing reconstruction accounting almost UD$1.6 billion. Reconstruction: In the short term, in addition to addressing the immediate sheltering needs of the affected population, the Government should begin preparing for the longer reconstruction phase. With the onset of winter, reconstruction activities could be reduced to a minimum, particularly in areas above the snowline. During this time, it will be important to undertake the following activities in preparation for reconstruction: (i) determine losses for establishing a baseline and eligibility levels; (ii) undertake seismic and soil investigations, particularly in the most affected areas; (iii) conduct training for safe construction techniques; (iv) disseminate information on available assistance packages and seismic-resistant designs; and (v) establish property rights. The reconstruction effort for permanent housing would predominantly begin in the spring with the provision of hazard-resistant housing for affected population through cash grants for basic housing assistance, beneficiary identification with compensation levels, and urban planning and development initiatives. Livelihood: The livelihood support strategy should also seek to rejuvenate economic activity in affected areas through reviving small businesses and trades, livestock and agriculture, and creating employment opportunities for those who are now permanently disabled. A short term option would be providing cash grants to affected families in the form of a monthly support of a recurrent, fixed amount. In addition, cash for work programs may be effective in generating temporary employment for those who are able and willing to work at an appropriate wage. Agriculture and Livestock: In the medium term support would be needed for replanting fruit trees, rebuilding terraces, replenishment of livestock inventory, rehabilitation of productive infrastructure, and reconstruction of laboratories, offices of extension and research for agriculture, livestock, and irrigation departments. Over the longer term the focus should be on restoring livestock inventories and rehabilitation of terraces and soil conservation infrastructure that have been severely damaged. It is necessary to reestablish the agricultural sector in a sustainable manner through strengthening institutional capacities and providing support services. Health: The reconstruction

Course Reflection Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Course Reflection - Essay Example To begin with, my first inquiry assignment talked about the causes of failure of El Hadji, the ruler of the Senegalese after the French rulers left. In this assignment, I put the superfluous reading into practice to enable me to come up with the storyline of the book-Xala. I also learnt that, through forming a proper question of inquiry, one is able to diagnose the whole story by answering the question of inquiry. For instance, by letting my question of inquiry to be, ‘’what led to the failure of El Hadji?’’, I was able to make a critical reading through the novel as I quench to find the answers to my question. In a way, I was able to develop greater meanings of the story rather than just reading the novel to know what it is talking about. From the story of this ruler, my question of inquiry enabled me to know that greed, corruption and inability to perform can make us as leaders to fail in discharging our duties to the people we lead. These are themes from the story that one can only make a good argument about when they form a question of inquiry and answer the question by making a thorough scrutiny of the text to develop some meaning from it that can be a lesson to the whole society. In my endeavors to create much meaning in my learning this semester, I realized that one would just have a superfluous reading at first to enable them to form an inquiry question. The inquiry question I formed had to be holistic in such a way that it had to allow me to be able to diagnose the whole novel as I got to the next assignment which required close reading to give a critical analysis. My first inquiry assignment therefore was only to give me an outline of what I need to do in order to answer my inquiry question. This then led to my second inquiry assignment where I was required to make a closer reading of the novel that would enable me to answer my inquiry question thoroughly. This brings a connection of the two assignments in a very interesting manner. It made me learn that one needs to make the first reading of a text or a novel to find its storyline. I then used the first reading to know what the novel talks about in a nutshell. From there, I was able to form a proper question that could help me scrutinize the whole novel. I was able to answer the formulated question by making a closer and critical reading of the novel as required by the second inquiry assignment. In the second assignment, I only went through certain sections of the novel, reading to find specific points that would give answers to my question. This helped me particularly to know what the author was trying to pass across to his readers. My major aim was to find the authors hidden meaning of the texts through his story and make them become lessons that everyone can use or learn from. Hence, the second part of this assignment really was to identify the author’s messages from the story to his readers and to the whole African society who find themselv es in similar contexts of leadership. I then wrote my writer’s letter which was included the steps that I followed to be able to make a close and critical reading of the novel. It also reflected on the deeper meanings from the author’s point of view, that anyone reading my notes would get from them. When one reads

Networking Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Networking - Assignment Example Describe three different associations that you could network with to learn about jobs in sales and marketing. Research these associations and indicate when/where they meet; the contact information; and how to network within these groups. One organization which could serve as a network to learn about jobs in sales and marketing is the Sales & Marketing & Executives International, Inc. located at PO Box 1390 Sumas, WA 98295 USA and could be contacted through their official website: http://www.smei.org/. Their contact information is through this number: 312-893-0751; and as disclosed, they could be contacted through social media sites such as: Facebook, Twitter, Linkedln, YouTube, through blog, radio (Sales & Marketing & Executives International, Inc., 2012). ... Its contact information include: TEL: (703) 234-4098, FAX: (703) 435-4390 and their site disclosed the information on conferences and upcoming events where members could appropriately meet, as required (Association of Investment Management Sales Executives, 2013). Finally, the SMPS is located at 123 North Pitt Street, Suite 400, Alexandria, VA 22314 with the following contact information: 800.292.7677 (Society for Marketing Professional Services, 2013). It listed the upcoming events where members and interested parties could meet with them at the indicated schedule and venue. One could therefore network with these groups through contacting them in their respective official websites, or through their contact information and other social networking sites, as indicated. How are networking and building connections essential skills to sales and marketing? Networking and building connections are essential skills to sales and marketing through the provision of crucial and relevant informati on that promulgates and perpetuate sales and marketing endeavors. Like the associations above mentioned, through these skills, interested parties or stakeholders of different organizations could forge alliances with member associations and groups to promote their endeavors, as required (Strategic Business Network, 2011). Relationships building and listening were seen as crucial elements to succeed in sales; in conjunction with sincerity, ethics, and asking (Michaels, 2011). As emphasized, â€Å"as Internet communication technology developed and more applications could be added to a social networking site, the number of features available to users increased drastically, adding to the sites' success† (EBSCO Host, 2013). Thus, organizations rely on social media to

Police Pursuits Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Police Pursuits - Essay Example It has also come into light Police Pursuit driving is about a thousand times more risk-prone than normal driving, which is why it is being perceived as quite hazardous to both, the public and the police officers, themselves. In Ontario, Canada, a separate law exists for prescribing the code of conduct, as well as the rules and regulations for Police Pursuits. This has been done to get the whole concept of Police Pursuit in the right spirit and to use it as a tool to safeguard the lives of fellow road-users and not vice verse! An instance to support the fact that police pursuits need to be regulated and made safe can be cited at this point. A police officer chased a driver who violated rules, collided into a truck carrying explosives. He, therefore, exposed the lives of numerous fellow travellers to risk, apart from his own life. Such incidents need to be avoided at any cost. Firstly, it is prescribed that police officers need to use sirens and other flash lights to alert the public about the pursuit and to help them avoid danger or collisions of any sort, especially in 'hazardous' pursuits. Secondly, numerous recommendations hav

Quality Assurance Manual Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Quality Assurance Manual - Assignment Example This means that a nutrition care plan should be completed as soon as the patient is admitted; be continuously monitored to ensure proper implementation within 14 days of admission; review its alignment in relation to institution-wide care plan; and review the plan based on changes in the needs of the person in care. In order to achieve the best practices in nutrition care plan, reviews should include the quality of the following mandated activities: Audit is done with 10% of the charts in the facility’s medical department. Using each person’s nutrition plan, review the developed plan within 2 weeks after entrance; nutrition care revised based on the person’s requirements; nutrition care monitoring to guarantee implementation; and the endorsement of the nutrition care plan by a registered dietician amongst others (Davison & Dominik, 2009). Additionally, audit should review weight monitoring of each selected person. With the nutrition plan and weight data of a selected person, the score is provided and determined whether or not the least acceptable audit score is met. Records are kept for any identified problem and its possible causes, the remedial measures to take, and the re-audit date. The policy for menu planning is to ensure that all menus are designed to offer appetizing, meals and beverages that are nutritionally reasonable and cost effective meals for the persons in care. In order to comply with the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care legislation, menu planning should be accomplished using the best possible practices and principle(Canada, 2014). The best practices include a registered dietician approving all menus; a consultation process is used to develop and improve menus; a menu cycle is used to ensure that there is monthly reviewing for variety; all menus bring enjoyment and enhance life through liberalization; use of tools and processes to determine nutritional content in food; and specification of portion sizes in each menu cycle

Methods in Computer Security Essay Example for Free

Methods in Computer Security Essay One of the negative impacts of technological advancements is the advancement of criminal methods. As one of the widespread progression in the whole world today, computerization has been made an instrument for criminal offenses, and this has alarmed many computer experts since the millennium bug had emerged, and was fortunately solved. Knowing the things that must be observed in computer software and hardware investigation is important to flourish as a computer forensics expert. Current investigations usually dwell on individual category, but still it can be expanded to a more general sense in analyzing the patterns and motives of maybe not just individuals, but groups or organizations (Anderson, 1996). First, in either hardware of software, all protective procedures must be known by the investigator. Security for the reliability of the source of information is of an utmost importance in fishing evidences towards solving a crime. The computer itself is the first place that must be secured. A way to secure them is to label them to avoid possible damages and interchange of the computer parts. Keeping the original state of the machine whether it is turned on/off, or maintaining connections at the back of the CPU or a laptop, is also a requirement for in the case of transportation, there might be a need to disassemble the parts, and knowing the original positions of the connections is relevant to restore the computer for investigation after transportation (Barba, __, p. 19). Second is the acquisition of electronic information. This can be obtained from the hard disk or other disk drives attached to the computer and to e-mails, where possible records of computer manipulation that the offender had done to the systems before and after completion of the act are present. Looking at the deleted and hidden files is also a very crucial step, which might lead to the identification of the possible objectives of the criminal in deleting those data fragments, or what data he needed so as to complete his purpose (Barba, __, p. 24). Upon identification of the important data files that are removed from the system, and if there exists any system transactions that can be done through those files, like for example bank transactions, it would be the initiative of investigator to warn the potential persons that can be damaged when the transactions have been completed. The third thing that is important to consider is the recovery of the lost information that the client needs. It may also be possible to identify log-in passwords and usernames to monitor the users of the computer which can be associated with time of deletion of information, thus identifying the criminal. They can also look at the possible system protection measures to secure information and to avoid access again to the system. The log and registry of the computer may trace this necessary information and identify changes on the computer codes (Sunblocksystems. com, 2007). Fingerprints may also be looked at in the case of a criminal act done at the place of the client itself. Identification of the criminal would be much more specific at this case. References Anderson, K. E. (1996). International Intrusions: Motives and Patterns Retrieved July 14, 2008, 2008, from http://www. aracnet. com/~kea/Papers/paper. shtml Barba, M. (___). Computer Forensic Investigations [Electronic Version]. Retrieved July 14, 2008, from http://www. computer-forensic. com/old_site/presentations/ASIS_Presentation. pdf Sunblocksystems. com. (2007). Computer Forensics. Retrieved July 13, 2008, from http://www. sunblocksystems. com/forensics. html

Strategies for Confessions and Interrogations

Strategies for Confessions and Interrogations Interrogation refers to a method of questioning that is usually used by investigating officers such as police, detectives, or military to obtain information from a suspect (Michael, 2007). Interrogation is a process that is allowed in law as defined by the constitution, but not all forms of interrogation are legal or even ethical from a moral point of view. In United States for instance the form in which interrogation must be undertaken in order to obtain a confession from a suspect are governed by the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution (Michael, 2007). The techniques of carrying out interrogation are not strictly defined by law but guidelines exist that define the limits by which procedures of interrogations must be done. Indeed the type of interrogations that exists and the form it can take are as varied as they are unethical. Generally interrogation techniques can be described in two ways, those that are legal and the ones that are carried out using illegal methods (Michael, 2007). Legal interrogations are defined by each countries law on the subject. However illegal interrogations are not specifically defined per se, but only categorized due to their nature, depth and breadth. The shapes in which illegal interrogation can take are many and cannot be exhaustively defined or even accounted. They are the most common types of interrogation that are usually subjected to suspects regardless of the countries legislation pertaining to the subject, including United States which is seen as the model of constitutional law. These forms of illegal interrogation are generally referred as torture (Michael, 2007). This is because they almost always involve inflicting of physical pain or deprivation of a vital necessity that directly contribute to normal body function such as sleep deprivation, alternating temperatures. However interrogation is not only limited to suspects but is also commonly done to witnesses and crime victims as well. Let us briefly analyze the nature of interrogations most commonly used both legal and illegal. In order to ascertain the level of significance of truth that exists for a person writing a confession under these circumstances. Legally there are four forms of interrogations that are routinely applied by law enforcement worldwide. One technique is use of suggestive words or statements that imply through conversation a notion of promise or threat to the person being interrogated (Kassin, Appleby and Perillo, 2010).. An interrogator therefore suggests to the suspect in no conditional or uncertain terms the possibility of the suspect being given lenient sentence if they were to cooperate. Or makes known availability of discriminating evidence that a witness to the crime has already recorded. This technique is also sometimes referred as deception since most of the time it involves downright lies (Kassin et al, 2010). Whichever the approach that an interrogator will choose it will have an impact to the suspect confessing to the crime. This is because under the circumstances of interrogation his rights will have been compromised. This method is not in any way defined as illegal in many countries, including United States. Another method of interrogations used is Suggestibility. It is built no two important assumptions, that the suspect will believe and accept the implied statements and two that they will act by confessing (Kassin et al, 2010). This method usually involves techniques such as sleep deprivation and sometimes use of drugs that inhibit the ability of mental functions to resist or think logically. The techniques used in this method seem to border on torture and are allowed in some countries as interrogation method. Another method is Goodcop/Badcop (Kassin et al, 2010). A technique used by an investigator that strives to alienate the suspect with the particular detective. The bad cop undertaking the interrogation intentionally exhibiting rough methods such as manhandling. Consequently, the idea is to make a suspect hate the cop and in the process be able to cultivate another relationship with another investigator brought in intermittently and who projects empathy, understanding and consolation. This is a notion that most researchers believe is part of the criminology theory. It elaborates on the main cause of crime, although this shall not be considered in depth. Finally there is the Reid technique, an interrogation process that focuses on a suspect body language to analyze the behavior of the suspect in order to tell if they are lying (Kassin et al, 2010). It is a technique that requires an investigator to have specific interrogation skills and high level of knowledge in behavior analysis. It is usually used by senior detective who have conducted numerous interrogation procedures. Body language analysis is an art that is taught to all FBI officers, that they apply in routine investigation tasks as Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). It is a legal form of interrogation allowed by almost every other country but it is not without it criticism. This criticism pertains to the conduct of the parties involved in the deed. Another method that is very much related to this is one that applies polygraph tests to suspects in order to tell if they are lying. Polygraph is a scientific device that analyzes brain structure activity and heart beat levels to ascertain the truthfulness of answers to statements (Kassin et al, 2010). The other forms of interrogations are the ones whose confessions are not admissible in court and usually involve torture. United Conventions Against Torture defines this type of interrogations as torture (Michael, 2007). But torture is not used to define illegal interrogation alone. It defines torture as ..any act by which severe pain or suffering, whether physical or mental. Is intentionally inflicted on a person for such purposes as obtaining from him, or a third person, information or a confession? It goes on to define torture as acts such as punishments without necessarily intention for information or confession (Michael, 2007). It also defines and includes discrimination and coercion as torture. This form of interrogation and torture in general is illegal according to the International Law. The Third and Fourth Geneva Conventions have ratified torture to be illegal even when directed to prisoners of war (Michael, 2007). UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights prohibits use of any form of interrogation which it considers to be Human Right Violations. The forms that illegal interrogations can take are many and sometimes the techniques themselves cannot be clearly explained to belong to one category or another. What is clear though is that interrogations in whichever form are an effective form of obtaining confessions, and certainly one of the methods that contributes to the success of criminal convictions in courtrooms. The Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution, states..No person shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself (Michael, 2007), a clear reference to a confession. And if such evidence was presented in a court of law then the law is required to view it with suspect and observe discretion (Michael, 2007). Indeed the regulatory mechanisms that have been put in place to guard against coerced confession are numerous and are informs of legislative laws and court rulings. United States for instance provides that Miranda warnings be read to a suspect at the time of arrest (Inbau, 2008). The Miranda statement serves to make the suspect aware of their right under the circumstances. All this procedure indeed proves that the nature of confessions given by suspects through all forms of interrogations in general is usually highly doubtful. But since confession is a product of the interrogation procedure, the method of the interrogation is a huge determinant to the nature of confession that a suspect is likely to make (Inbau, 2008). For instance interrogation through torture can be said to be effective in one way. Since a suspect is more likely to divulge valuable information at times of unbearable physical pain than it is possible for them under any other circumstance. Sometimes the notion of threat is alone can achieve this. What is important to note in this case is that this method is probably only effective when the goal is information and not a confession. On the other hand using torture to obtain a confession cannot be said to present a high probability of the confession statement being truthful. For the simple reason that a person under dire physical pain or strived of vital physical necessities would almost do anything that would ease the pain at all cost. The priority in that case is to deal with the present condition regardless of the consequences associated with the confession. Perhaps the reason why most law enforcement agencies worldwide resorts to torture interrogation mostly when what they is require is information (Inbau, 2008). Torture is against human rights. Although in certain cases, torture will be recommended and opposed to other forms of interrogation. Torture should only be used when information that is critical to saving lives is required from a terrorism suspect. The torture employed should be a matter of personal preference until the suspect surrenders the pertinent information. However the likely hood of obtaining a truthful confession is seen to be high when legal interrogations procedures are used which plays on the suspects fear such as deny of freedom. And which also uses the components of promises, threats and deception appropriately. These are interrogation techniques allowed and the confession obtained is admissible in a court of law. However the interrogator should only be in pursuit for the truth since false confessions cannot be upheld by a court of law. Ultimately the nature of a confession that is obtained whether truthful or not through interrogation method does not matter so much. Since it is provided by law that confessions can be retracted at any point by the suspects if they just so much like mention their confession was not obtained in proper method. In any case conviction of a suspect does not so much depend on the confession by itself but is based on the outcome of a full trial. Hence I would say interrogation certainly results in truthful confessions, but it depends with the independent variable which is the nature of interrogation. Therefore interrogation method can be said to be the independent variable and the truthfulness of the confession as the dependent variable, since it outcomes is influenced by the method of interrogation. The ethical implications posed by the interrogation methods that are used are one that depends on the definition of ethics, since ethics is a relative term. If the saying that the end justifies the means were to hold true then indeed ethics must be found their place in the issues that surround interrogation. Ethics are defined as value, belief, principle and convictions that a groups of people hold to be noble in their life and which they strive to practice in their everyday life. It is the highest moral perception and ideals that a community works to promote and which they have desire to be associated with the larger community. Interrogation by itself is in no way an ethical process and the attempt to introduce ethics in interrogation methods would perhaps require that the purpose of interrogation be redefined. In interrogation a suspect is meant to divulge information that is usually self incriminating so to speak, through confessing probably to crimes committed. Interrogation aids in the preservation of human rights. Indeed, all suspects have equal rights as those who are free and have not been arrested. Hence, using this method ensures that the criminal justice agents do not go against the human rights as required by international law. Therefore, the suspects are required to be truthful and perhaps remorseful as well. In doing so an interrogator is supposed to achieve this according to defined ethical procedures that have been put in place. But ethics have no place in interrogation and one is therefore forced to choose between the two whether to choose undertaking the interrogation process using certain ethics that would probably not yield any confession. Or whether to use every technique in order to obtain the end results which is the confession. If ethics in interrogation existed then they would certainly not be found in coercion. Because coercion involves use of methods on a suspect that are meant to pressurize and presents a level of discomfort and lack of peace mentally that make a suspect yield to the demands of the interrogator. They involve such methods as bullying, harassment, physical force, intimidation including cruelty. It is certainly among the most degrading interrogation methods which are in no way ethical or humane. Therefore, interrogation is an effective method that is aimed at ensuring that the suspects release pertinent information. Although this has its own challenges, it should be the first method that the criminal agencies should employ. If this fails, then they should seek alternative methods which are normally more thorough and involve the use of force or inflicting pain. References Inbau, E. (2008). Law and Police Practice: Restrictions in the Law of Interrogation and Confessions. Criminal Law and Criminology. 89, 87-98. Kassin L. (2009). The Psychology of Confessions. Annual Review of Law and Social Science. 45, 22-35. Kassin, Appleby, Perillo (2010). Interviewing Suspects: Practice, Science, and Future Directions. Legal and Criminological Psychology. 67, 47-60. Michael, J., G. (2007). U.N. Convention Against Torture (CAT): Overview and Application to Interrogation Technique. Washington, DC: McGraw Hill Publishers.

Judaism vs. Christianity :: Compare Contrast Comparison Essays

Judaism vs. Christianity Judaism and Christianity developed on the basis obeying God, on adherence to his rules and intentions and their faithful fulfillment. Since the fulfillment of God’s will is a duty of a Jewish or Christian person, both religions fall into the rule-deontological category. In Judaism, God is seen as having a contractual relationship with the Jewish people where they must obey his holy laws in return for their status of the chosen people. God rewards or punishes Jewish people based on whether they obey or disobey his will. In parts of the Old Testament, however, God does show mercy or forgiveness, and in later interpretations God’s laws such as the Ten Commandments are followed not only out of loyalty to God but also because of their high moral character. In Christianity, the emphasis is placed on love of God rather than on obeying his will. People must believe that God is merciful and loves them as well. As a reflection of God’s love, people must also love other people (and the whole humanity in general) and forgive their enemies. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus endorses agape, or selfless love (in contrast to eros, or possessive love), which consists of dedication to another person’s good, even at the expense of our own good and happiness. People should practice peace and nonviolence, return good for evil and love for suffering (â€Å"turn the other cheek†). This leads to a special conception of justice, called the â€Å"divine justice†, which is based on giving a person what he or she needs rather than deserves (e.g., in case of a crime, redemption rather getting even). Even though agapeistic love is certainly a noble ideal, it is unstable equilibrium and an easy victim of the â€Å"prisoner’s dilemma,† in which the best alternative for a group of people is not the best alternative for each person in the group. Judaism vs. Christianity :: Compare Contrast Comparison Essays Judaism vs. Christianity Judaism and Christianity developed on the basis obeying God, on adherence to his rules and intentions and their faithful fulfillment. Since the fulfillment of God’s will is a duty of a Jewish or Christian person, both religions fall into the rule-deontological category. In Judaism, God is seen as having a contractual relationship with the Jewish people where they must obey his holy laws in return for their status of the chosen people. God rewards or punishes Jewish people based on whether they obey or disobey his will. In parts of the Old Testament, however, God does show mercy or forgiveness, and in later interpretations God’s laws such as the Ten Commandments are followed not only out of loyalty to God but also because of their high moral character. In Christianity, the emphasis is placed on love of God rather than on obeying his will. People must believe that God is merciful and loves them as well. As a reflection of God’s love, people must also love other people (and the whole humanity in general) and forgive their enemies. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus endorses agape, or selfless love (in contrast to eros, or possessive love), which consists of dedication to another person’s good, even at the expense of our own good and happiness. People should practice peace and nonviolence, return good for evil and love for suffering (â€Å"turn the other cheek†). This leads to a special conception of justice, called the â€Å"divine justice†, which is based on giving a person what he or she needs rather than deserves (e.g., in case of a crime, redemption rather getting even). Even though agapeistic love is certainly a noble ideal, it is unstable equilibrium and an easy victim of the â€Å"prisoner’s dilemma,† in which the best alternative for a group of people is not the best alternative for each person in the group.

Richard Iiis Presence In Black Adder; The Foretelling :: essays research papers

The good guys always win. We know this because Hollywood has taught us that. We also know this because history has taught us this. But when people take into account and acknowledge history’s teachings, most fail to also consider history’s hypocrisy. Every day, all through our lives we become softened and comforted with drugs, fed gradually and continuously by our trusted media. We are overwhelmed by the goodness of our rulers. Wherever there is evil, it is always won over by the forces of good. America – saviour of democracy, has defeated the evil communist empires. Australia is a more civilised and developed country now that it is in the capable hands of the Europeans. Israel with the help of America (our favourite knight in shining armour) is winning the battle against Islamic terrorists so that they can secure their â€Å"democratic interests†. Again and again we are reminded that history, after all, is written by the winners. The Black Adder episode; The Foretelling, attempts to remind us of history’s hypocrisy by studying the events of the War of the Roses an texts from literature depicting this, and illuminating them in humorous light. Special treatment is given to Shakespearian accounts of the war. It provides a ridiculously different version of event, mocking us for respecting Shakespeare as a historian. The writer does this by making continuous appropriations to Richard III through similar but humorously modified phrases, the inconsistent use of Elizabethan language, familiar names but with different characters and by depicting similar events. The story starts off with good king Richard III addressing his group of merry men by saying, â€Å"Now is the summer of our sweet content made overcast winter by these Tudor clouds.† Words from that famous opening soliloquy, recited by theatre’s most well known Machiavellian villain, modified to have a ridiculously contrary meaning that we find humorous. Hah, we say in disbelief, Richard a nice guy? We find that hard to take in because we listen and accept what Shakespeare tells us. The essence of The Foretelling’s humour is derived from many such allusions to Richard-III. Richard is not the only victim of such characterisations. Innocent sweet little Edmund is potrayed as the evil traitor; the Black Adder ad is given a particularly daft hairstyle! The knight Richmond – champion of goodness, servant of god – is now the vile enemy, accused of rewriting history for his own sake.

Global Outsourcing of American Products and Services Essay -- Globaliz

Global Outsourcing of American Products and Services   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Global outsourcing of American products and services is a trend that is becoming increasingly popular with large corporations. For the same services provided in the United States, corporations are finding quality work in other countries for a fraction of the cost. The country currently at the forefront of this trend is India. This paper will discuss companies that outsource business to foreign countries and also why they are chose to. The ethical implications to both countries in these situations will also be discussed.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Many corporations are experiencing significant cost savings by outsourcing work to developing countries across the globe. Some advantages of global outsourcing are: technically skilled, inexpensive labor; multi-lingual workforce; potential 24/7 global tech support; global prestige; local market access advantages; lower duties and tariffs; low cost delivery; and after sales service. (http://www.wsa1.org) â€Å"Developing nations†¦benefit by providing local viable careers for their educated populations, attracting foreign investments in their infrastructure, and a general increase in the standard of living.† (http://cseserv.engr.scu.edu) These advantages make a strong case for outsourcing, but there are many disadvantages that are being discounted or overlooked.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Some disadvantages noted by corporations are: political risk; loss of quality control over manufacturing, brand, and support; misrepresentation of the company; IPR concerns; brand management; channel conflict (gray market, territory); stricter labor laws; bribery and kickback pressure; and productivity. (http://www.wsa1.org) There is also the possibility of a negative impact to the American job market. Issues surrounding this impact to our job market are not frequently mentioned during discussions about whether or not to send business overseas. Finally, there are many ethical questions and dilemmas involved with these decisions. These ethical dilemmas affect individuals in America as well as those in the overseas countries. In spite of these disadvantages, many major corporations have decided to outsource to foreign countries, indicating that the advantages are worth the risk.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Several corporations have already experience... ...e Web. Call Center India (November 19, 2003); More U.S. Jobs, especially in Call Centers, headed for India, http://callcenterinindia.blogspot.com/ Retrieved on November 25, 2003 from the World Wide Web. Ranjit Shastri (October 6, 2003); An Overview of India’s Call Center Industry, http://www.tmcnet.com/tmcnet/articles/2003/100603rs.htm Retrieved on November 25, 2003 from the World Wide Web. Ronil Hira (October 20, 2003); Testimony to the Committee on Small Business, http://www.ieeeusa.org/forum/POLICY/2003/102003.html Retrieved on November 25, 2003 from the World Wide Web. Nicholson & Sahay (November, 2001); Some political and cultural issues in the globilisation of software development: case experience from Britain and India, http://les1.man.ac.uk/accounting/Staff/Academic/B_Nicholson/I&Opapernicholson_sahay.pdf Retrieved on November 25, 2003 from the World Wide Web. CIO.com (June 5, 2003); Global Outsourcing and L-1 Visas, http://comment.cio.com/ Retrieved on November 25, 2003 from the World Wide Web. Walter Williams (2003); Minimum Wage Tip-Off, http://www.washtimes.com/commentary/20031114-081940-9148r.htm Retrieved on November 25, 2003 from the World Wide Web.

Organizational Impact Paper Essay

Organizations today use creativity and innovation to change the products and services they provide to accommodate market demands. Companies may have difficulty with changes if there is no consideration for a competitive advantage or plans to transform and adjust their company to accommodate the demands for innovation of products and services for consumers. Organizations will conform to changes or transformation to achieve an economical advantage in business for innovation or it will fall behind its competitors. It will then be known as an organization of past success and current market absence. This paper will evaluate the impact of innovation, strategy, process, product, and services on three different organizations American Family Life Assurance Company (AFLAC), Microsoft, and Nike. American Family Life Assurance Company (AFLAC) The impact of innovation can be evaluated by looking at how organizations react or interact with the changes that are necessary. Commonly known as Aflac, the organization was founded November 17, 1955 by three brothers from Columbus, Georgia, (AFLAC, 2008). Aflac has been operating for more than 50 years, and is the number one provider of guaranteed-renewable insurance in the United States, and provides insurance protection worldwide for more than 40 million people (AFLAC, 2008). Internationally, Aflac targeted Japan, entering the insurance market almost 30 years ago and writes business for two-thirds of Japan, ensuring one in every four Japanese households (Best Review, 2003). A definite marketing strategy that contributed to Aflac rising market was their well-known pekin duck. An individual could not travel far without  meeting a stranger who could easily identify the duck icon and mimicking its tagline, â€Å"Aflac!† The market tagline was created in 2000 by the Kaplan Thaler Advertising Agency Group and recognized by nearly 90% of Americans; the pekin duck is an international icon and has done wonders for the organization (Best Review, 2003). For Example, after airing Aflac’s first duck commercial in January 2000, the organization rose practically overnight and became one of the most recognized brands of insurance in the market (AFLAC, 2008). The company advertised for six days and received more hits on their website for all 1999 and sales increased by more than 29% that is more sales increase during the first two weeks of the year than two previous years combined (Best Review, 2003). Aflac would never have experienced such success without the demands granted by innovation. Able to differentiate their competitor’s products, Aflac enforced an important marketing strategy in 1986, when the company expanded from rural to the metropolitan areas (AFLAC, 2008). The company used more independent insurance brokers rather than exclusive producers to sell their insurance and they recognize that brokers had already directed major medical coverage, other financial services, and could represent the organization with an excellent distribution channel (McCoy, 1996). Aflac offers a number of different services and products, including life, dental, vision, and supplemental health insurance such as cancer, hospital, accident, and disability. Microsoft Microsoft was found in 1975 and has become the world leader in software services, applications, and solutions (Microsoft, 2011). The organization leads the way in creativity, innovation software, hard ware products for individuals and companies, and offers products such as financial management tools, networking, web browser, and desktop (Microsoft, 2011). Almost every organization within an industry uses Microsoft products and often use customize applications to accommodate better that particular organization (Microsoft, 2011). One strategy that has enable Microsoft to stay ahead of the innovative curve is the development of the a new software computing called Microsoft surface that responds to hand movements, is capable of identifying genuine objects,  and can use barcode tags (Microsoft, 2011). The surface computer with a 230-inch display in a table-like form provides effortless interaction with digital content through hand touch movement and physical objects (Microsoft, 2011). This product is revolutionary because of future possibilities and innovations that will come from it, and will show the next generation a profitable outlook that will allow every user to remove and improve communication barriers, encourage social interaction, gain customer loyalty, and provide a unique shopping experience (Microsoft, 2011). Microsoft envisions that with the innovation of technology, surface computing will be available and used at all levels of government, organizations, and industries. Nike Nike, athletic shoes was found in 1962 by Phil Knight, who saw a gap and a need in the market of athletic shoes (Nike, 2000). Nike had a profound change on its marketing strategy and product when it introduced the Air Nikes, featuring Michael Jordan with the â€Å"Just Do It† slogan and â€Å"Bo Knows† commercial, (Nike, 2000). These innovative styles made the Nike shoes more recognizable and popular to consumers worldwide (Nike, 2000). Nike could modify its products and services through its innovative marketing strategy taken from evaluations on customer benefits and needs, whereas the product succeeded innovation technology with fashions that cater to customer satisfaction on a global level (Nike, 2000). Nike currently seeks out innovative ways to create advance athletic products and methods to speak creatively to the market because the success of Nike is based on marketing strategy that weighs current factors and trends (Nike, 2000). If Nike continues the innovation of new marketing ideas for their services and products, the organization will maintain their current role of innovative leadership with products, developments, and revenues in the athletic sports-wear industry (Nike, 2000). Conclusion Based on the information given from the three above organizations it has been determined that innovation can either make or break an organization.  Innovation is inevitable in organizations today because businesses have to make preparations for an innovative market by focusing their efforts on current market strategy, process, product improvement, and services. The three organizations discussed above used innovation and creativity to change the products and services they provide to accommodate the market demands. As the organizations indicated above, innovation is an important advantage for business growth and profitability and an important contributor to the business strategy to gain a competitive advantage. . References A Brief history of Microsoft. Retrieved January 18, 2011, from http://www.microsoft.com/misc/features_flshbk.htm. AFLAC. (2008). About AFLAC. Retrieved January 18, 2011, from http://aflac.com/us/en/aboutaflac/history.aspx. ENEWS Best’s Review (2003, May). The mighty duck. Retrieved January 18, 2011, from http:goliath.ecnext.com/coms2/gi-0199-2846151/The-mighty-duck-Aflac-is.htm. McCoy, T.A. (1996). Independent agents benefit from AFLAC’s marketing strategy. Retrieved January 18, 2011, from http://findarticles.com/p/arrticles/mi_qa3615/is-199612/ai-n8754524microsoft(n.d.). Nike History and Heritage. 2000. Retrieve January 18, 2011, from http://www.nikebiz.com/company-overview/history/1950.

Buying a House Is Better Than Renting

Buying a house is a better option than renting an apartment. † In this essay I will discuss about the major benefits of buying a house rather than renting an apartments. While it can be costly it is a safer place to live that has long term-investment and tax advantage. Buying a house may be difficult and it can be a confusing process, even for veteran buyers. Here are some tasks that housing experts say before getting into the buying a house. Get financials in order. Buyers should check their credit score, taxes, 401(k) s and other aspects of their financial situation to determine the maximum amount they are comfortable affording for their monthly mortgage, utilities, maintenance, taxes and insurance. If one’s credit score is low, he or she may need to get it higher before applying for a mortgage. A bad credit score may not just affect the buyers’ rates, but may prevent them from getting a mortgage. Buyers should also get pre-approved by a broker or lender — that means they get an agreement by a bank to lend the buyer up to a specific amount for a home, and the bank tells sellers that financing is already lined up. When a buyer finds the right house, he or she make an offer and apply for a mortgage. While every local market is different, most economists say buyers are generally in the driver's seat today this mean, buyers can ask to lower the price of prospected home. Fifty-three percent of homeowners believe a seller's market is still two or more years away, according to a survey of 2,003 adults between March 30 and April 2 by American Express. This market is very local. Homes in Chicago are getting multiple offers and going for more than 10% over the asking price, for example, while those in Fort Lauderdale are selling for 20% less than list price, according to Zip Realty. When a buyer his ready to purchase a house, they should have enough cash for a down payment, which can be a minimum of 10%, and extra funds for closing costs, including appraisal costs and move-in deposit. Buyers need to make sure that if they are buying a used house, they need to check any additions or construction to an existing home have been properly filed with the city and approved for better appraisal or buyer can purchase a new house if they would want to. When he or she owns and lives in a house, there are many benefits that come with owning and living in the house. The following are the benefits of living in a house. One major benefit of living in a house is safety and privacy. In apartments there are limited. Living in a house, He or she does not have too many neighbors around him or her compares to living in apartments where neighbors is literally next door and with in your arms reach. When he or she lives in a house, they are always on the ground floor, where in apartments tenants can have no choice but to climb those stairs and maybe all the way to the last floor. When he or she lives in a house, they definitely have no problem where to park their vehicle; they can have their own garage and a driveway, which is more comfortable and much safer than apartment’s parking lot. Apartments have a higher crime rate compare to any types of housing, According to the National Crime Prevention Council, the organization best known for McGruff the Crime Dog, apartments are eighty-five percent more likely to be victimized by burglaries compare to Even though one may feel safe living in a house or apartment, they still need to practice vigilance and prevention to avoid becoming a victim of property theft or other crimes. Buying a house can be great long term investment. As old and basic as it is, the number one rule in real estate still hasn't changed: location is everything. The area in which the house is located– its surroundings and distance from an urban center – has a profound impact on the long-term value of one’s home. Real estate experts have long cautioned against owning the most lavish house in the neighborhood or making extravagant home improvements that far outdo everything else around. The fact is that, generally speaking, pricey homes don not appreciate as much as more modest structures do. It is typically better to buy the least expensive house in an upscale neighborhood and make improvements. In such a case, your home will appreciate more in value. Although the average change in house prices are related to changes in fundamentals or perhaps market-wide bubbles, not all houses in a market appreciate at the same rate. Apartments only increase in rent as the years go by. Renters will never own a piece of the apartment or cash out any money they put in, unlike in paying the â€Å"mortgage. † If the owner continues paying the mortgage, in 15, 20 or 30 years (depending on the length of the loan) the house is theirs. Homeowner can deduct on their federal and state income taxes the amount of mortgage interest and real estate taxes they pay each year. For example, by itemizing deductions on the tax return, a married couple filing jointly can deduct $21,000 from his taxable income. A renting married couple may not have a lot of deductions, so they might choose the standard deduction, which is $10,300. Home receives an additional $10,700 in tax deduction than the renting couple. Assuming both couples each earn $100,000 per year. The renting couple would have to pay income tax on $89,700. The owning couple would pay tax on $79,000 difference of $10,000 owners can put in their pocket. Everyone wants to cut back on what they pay in taxes and home ownership not only decreases taxes, but builds equity. Equity is the difference between the market value of a property and the claims held against it. Having equity, homeowner may borrow money using equity as collateral. This is another benefit of buying a house instead of renting an apartment. While it can be costly it is a safer place to live that has long term-investment and tax advantage.

Explain How to Manage Disagreements with Children, Young People and Adults Essay

Very often in my life I have found myself in the middle of the conflict. We have to be very wise, diplomatic and try to help to solve the problem if somebody asks us to. Many times people know how to sort it out or what must be done to solve the problem but they are too emotionally involved and at that moment and they simply are not able to do anything. If such a situation happened it is good to listen and give them time to calm down. It can take just few minutes or longer period of time. Important thing is to keep patient; this may be hard to do but it is important to keep a cool head. At times I am required to mediate discussions over a period of time until both parties feel that the issue has been resolved to their satisfaction. Might be conflicts at work, between husband and wife, among friends, among children at school or at home. 1. Firstly when we want to manage disagreements the skill of listening to both sides of the conflict and assessing the whole situation is required before making any decisions. I Also checking their non-verbal communication and make sure I am aware of what caused the conflict in reality. Working with Roma children I found out that sometimes they bring their conflicts from previous disagreement. Verbal conflicts are easier to manage than physical disagreements. 2. Secondly I must be completely sure that both sides want and are ready to resolve the conflict. If the children stay angry or refuse to communicate helping them to negotiate will be impossible to do. Few days ago one Roma boy was hit by another friend. They kept saying different stories what happened to them as they were looking at this problem from their own point of view. Other children witnessed the incident and helped by explaining what happened. Sometimes I ask both sides separately as this gives more of a clearer picture and I make sure they are honest. 3. Next important issue during the whole process of helping to manage disagreements is that I will act as a helper for resolving the issue but allow them to have some responsibility in sorting the problem out. They must do it by themselves. I can lead the discussion or help them to find resolution this will encourage them to sort differences and enable them to feel proud. We have to know the personalities of children or adults involved. Otherwise, not knowing the weakest points can cause barriers and this will result in the problem not being solved. 4. Another very important point is win/win resolutions. This means that both parties will gain once the disagreement has been resolved. Once I feel that I have identified the real issue, I will point it out to them and ask them if they agree. This will end the disagreement and will also dismiss any future problems that may occur. When any disagreement happens be creative solving it. Try to think of as many different solutions to the problem as you can. The mediator and the parties involved should try to think through the conflict before any meetings, and then again when you get together and begin your discussion. Allow your discussion to flow in as many different directions as they can, as long as emotions don’t get too heated, in order to resolve the conflict effectively. The most important thing is to take other peoples feeling into consideration.

Jewish Temple Sections

Sections of the Jewish TempleMrs. McCurdy Mostly From Icons, p. 10-11 The Outer Court is also known as the Court of Gentiles Gentiles or non-Jews were not allowed beyond this court. Traders could be found here selling birds and animals to be used for sacrifices. It was also a place to change Roman money into Temple money (money-changers). [When Jesus got angry with these people and threw them out of â€Å"His Father’s House† he did this because they were giving the people a very poor exchange rate, and so were make lots of money at their expense, after all, they had to buy the sacrifices with Temple money! The Court of Women Women and children were not allowed to beyond this area. It was a favourite meeting place for families when they came to Jerusalem on pilgrimage. [This was probably where Mary would have been looking for Jesus when he was 12 years old. ] The Court of Israelites Only Jewish men were allowed to enter here. They would see the altar of sacrifice and the offers being made to God. At the time of Jesus, animal sacrifices were an important part Temple worship. The Court of Priests This was exclusively reserved for priests. In this area was the altar on which the birds and animals were sacrificed. Only domestic animals would be sacrificed. This included pigeons and doves, the offerings of poor people. The Holy of Holies This was the innermost and most sacred part of the Tempe. A large veil covered its entrance. Only the high priest was allowed to enter, and he only went in once a year, on the Day of Atonement, Yom Kippur. He offered sacrifices and asked God’s forgiveness in the name of all the people. On this day only he spoke aloud, in full, the name of God. [You will learn much later from the Gospel of Jesus’ trial that during this trial, before the High Priest, when asked, Jesus said he was the Son of the â€Å"Blessed One†. The Jewish authorities were then able to accuse Jesus of blasphem, because only the High Priest was allowed to speak out aloud the name of God, so under Jewish law, Jesus was committing a grave sin. ] This day marked a new start, a renewal of faithfulness to the laws of God.

Discuss the ethical issues in the Monsanto case Essay

Discuss the ethical issues in the Monsanto case - Essay Example Most cases, the company owned up its failures and strived to clean up in its attempt to safeguard its stakeholder interests. In its attempt to balance the stakeholder interests, Monsanto has often disregarded a number of ethical issues mostly in health, environmental and moral issues as the discussion below portrays. The company has a poor reputation owing to the number of scandals arising from the unethical techniques it employs in its operations. The debate around the suitability of genetically modified foods continues to jeopardize the activities of the company and its profitability given the fact that the company prides itself in the sale of such products. Genetically modified foods present a number of advantages to the society. Genetically modified substances mature faster and are resistant to both drought and pests. As such, genetic modification of foods is among the surest ways of enhancing the global food security (Gillam, 2009). Such arguments continue to enhance the profitability of the company since the company presents the answer to some of the world’s greatest concern. Food insecurity in Africa is of a major concern. Through consistent research on genetic modification of agricultural products, the company promises to develop plant and animal species that can help improve food security in the continent. While such beliefs continue to improve investor confidence on the company, Monsanto must continue employing ethical practices in order to safeguard the safety of the substances it develops. The company must address all the major concerns and doubts that people have on the safety and suitability of the genetically modified foods (Fraedrich, Ferrell & Ferrell, 2012). Another equally important ethical concern is environmental degradation. Global warming is a real threat to the safety of the earth. As such, the company must enhance the safety of its operations with the view to protecting the environment from such of the pollutant its produces. In

Education in Britain 1979 to Present Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Education in Britain 1979 to Present - Essay Example The period from 1979-1997 can be referred as neo-liberalism era as it was characterised by marketisation especially of public services. According to Gillard (2011) it was also a period of social and economic restructuring whereby Thatcher applied her unpopular aggressive policies earning her the title of ‘iron lady’. Prior to conservative government taking over office tremendous changes had been made in the education sector especially resulting from the 1944 Education Act. This Act saw the introduction of free and compulsory education to pupils aged 5-16 and also the famous selection tests known as 11+ (Jones, 2003: 25). The schools were put on Local Education Authorities who were involved in funding and management of schools. Parents, in this case, did not have much choice as to what schools their pupils should attend. Although the Act was aimed at creating equal opportunities for students’ social class differences were still apparent as students from the middle class attended good schools while those from poor backgrounds ended up in technical schools. It was a three tier system comprising of grammar schools, technical school, and secondary modern. Exclusion thus persisted. While in office, the secretary for education James Callaghan had instituted a youth opportunity program for 16-18-year-olds in 1978 after a great debate on the nature and purpose of education. When Thatcher came into office she did not abolish the system but rather expanded it in 1980 and renamed in 1983 to be the Youth Training Scheme. However, the debate in her time was one sided ads she did nit involve other actors such as parents, teachers and governors. In 1980 she also started the Assisted Places Scheme to help those poor students who passed entrance exams to get free places (Chitty, 2004: 45; Gillard, 2011). The first agenda for Thatcher concerning education was to do away with the 11 plus selection exam but her efforts were thwarted since comprehensive schooling still enjoyed great popularity (Richmond, 2007). The curriculum in place is determined by the government of the day hence prone to a lot of changes. The selection exam was

Possible Approaches in Counseling People Dealing With Bereavement Article

Possible Approaches in Counseling People Dealing With Bereavement - Article Example Death is not a mystery to those who have died. The people living are the ones who struggle to find meaning in it. As far back as 60,000 years ago, prehistoric people observed special ceremonies when burying their dead. Many early cultures believed that people continued to exist after death and had the same needs that they did in life; hence they buried their loved ones with food, dishes, weapons, and jewels. Some religions, such as Christianity, believe that the dead will rise again; to them, the burial of the body is symbolic, like the planting of a seed in the earth to await rebirth. Many Eastern religions share the belief that death marks the end only of physical existence and of the limited view of reality that human beings can grasp. Death itself is a remote experience in most lives today, something that takes place off-stage in a hospital or nursing-home. In earlier times, dying was a much more visible part of daily living. Families, friends, and other loved ones in a community would share in caring for those at the end of life (Schulz et al., 27 June 2001) Most deaths occurred at home, often following a brief illness and unaffected by the limited medical care available. Today, the process of dying almost has become invisible, but it still summons pain among the loved ones left (Bern-Krug et al., February 2001). Coping with loss is a process with an individual course, tem... There are others who benefit from, and still others who continue to require the assistance of, qualified psychotherapists in confronting the void left by death. There is no single ideal time point for therapeutic intervention. As practiced today, bereavement counselling is a valuable and non-stigmatizing method of assisting the bereaved who have difficulty entering, traversing or exiting the grief and mourning process. Review of Literature Throughout history, numerous writers and researchers have articulated their views of what constitutes the bereaved state and its associated actions, particularly since 1970. The earliest conceptualizations was done by Freud (1957), where he related it to loss situation-specific depressive syndromes, and he spoke of restitution of cathected or invested energies, particularly those of id origin. Later formulations bore the hallmark of attachment theory grounding, wherein the broken bond with the lost object/person is the subject and object of a universal psychosocial process leading to eventual reconciliation of painful feelings and reattachment to life, living and, for some, even new relationships. Colin Murray Parkes (1972) also cited stigma and deprivation as key features of the bereavement experience. These authors based their findings largely on studies of widows in Britain, Australia, and North America. Many of these seminal works on bereavement brought about a linear stage model of progression to some better state post-loss. Examples include the popularized views of Elisabeth Kbler-Ross (1969), who wrote of movement from denial, through anger, to bargaining, then to depression, and finally to acceptance. This often misrepresented and misused description none the less has

School Vouchers Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

School Vouchers - Essay Example Due to the multifaceted effect of the said system it is important to consider the advantages of the system over the disadvantages (Walberg, and Wang 2-15). When it comes to the study of the issues regarding the voucher system for schools, there are the two sides. The side that affirm the importance of the used of the school vouchers and the side that questions the feasibility of the propositions and policies are vital to the study of the school voucher system (Kupermintz 2). The main objective of the study if to present the importance of the application of school voucher system. To be able to determine the importance of school voucher system, views on the different aspects are required. Based on the study of the different issues related to the system, there are different points that can be given attention. These points include the educational aspect itself, social aspect, and political aspect. It is important to give attention to these issues to be able to realize the vitality of the voucher system. The primary evidence of the importance and applicability of the school voucher is in relation to the a... Although there are different contradictions and criticism regarding the issue, it is important to consider that the main objective is to be able to provide access to education. The subsequent evidence in support of the school voucher system is the aim of the proponents of the establishment of the system to target the improvement in terms of educating the population. Generally the view of the group that opposes the system is the fact that optimization of the resources if not guaranteed and that the possible loss in terms of fund can be put to the improvement of the public schools which are considered to require more form the government to be able to improve. This can be considered to be affected by the school vouchers due to the fact that in most cases these privileges are also from the government and government officials. Although there is an important point being presented by the groups that question the feasibility of the school vouchers it is important to consider the different advantages that are related to the system. It can be considered as an optimistic action to be able to alleviate a larger portion of the population from illiteracy. It can be considered as a bold action to be able to pursue the advocacy for school voucher due to the fact that it is opt to be questioned by different groups. The advocacy for the continuance of the school voucher system is important for the people who have the capability to avail the requirements and the privileges of the provision system due to the fact that the people being helped can make the difference. When it comes to the different aspects that can be discerned by the groups and institutions in the society that are against the continuation of the provision of school

Security in E-Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 11

Security in E-Business - Essay Example Information is a significant business asset for any online enterprise. Therefore, protecting it from other competitors in the market is relevant for a business organization. Security for e-business can suitably protect information from a number of threats while focusing on the following perspectives (â€Å"Protecting†, 2008).  In the age of the Internet, it is quite easy to create, alter and transmit information. Besides, â€Å"the advancement in computing capacity and interconnectivity has presented a situation where small efforts can cause potentially large losses† (Otuteye, 2003). That is why concern for information security is a must for all small and big e-business organizations.  There are numerous ways to attack an e-business setup by various hackers, competitors and even displeased insiders. e-business enterprises should conduct evaluation processes on their technological capabilities including multiple areas (â€Å"Approach to e-business security†, 2 007),  Security in e-business is an ongoing process that has to deal with both existing and new threats. A good security program always ensures continuous improvement. It is without the doubt that security does add to the cost of business at initial phases. But in the long run, it can do tremendously well in saving money, earning a good reputation as well as customers for the company. After all, what matters most at the end of e-business or generally any business enterprise is the trust and credibility one builds and maintains with customers and business partners.

Define the term culturally competent organisation and elaborate what Essay

Define the term culturally competent organisation and elaborate what actions could be taken by the organisation to increase its cultural competency - Essay Example This is more relevant in service sectors, especially the health care industry. One must appreciate the uniqueness of health care industry before proceeding further. A healthcare professional needs to strike an equation with the patient before any meaningful healthcare can take place since, matching of frequency in thought, feelings and culture is essential for the patient to really start trusting a professional nurse. Unless this trust is developed and nurtured, any hope of speedy recovery can be safely forgotten. The only way such trust can take roots is through cultural compatibility. The patient must feel completely â€Å"at home† for medicines to start taking effect. (Sue, D.W. & Sue, D, 1990) A culturally competent healthcare institution accepts the difference that exists among different cultures and races and not only respects that difference but also adapts itself to serve all those who come from diverse cultures. The first step towards becoming a culturally competent healthcare organisation is to engage in deep research about different cultures and taking professional assistance from persons who are experts in the nuances of these cultures and ethnic groups. The results and findings of these researches need to be circulated in an easily intelligible format among all the healthcare professionals in the organisation so that each one of them gets the opportunity of equipping themselves to face challenges of cultural diversity. But a culturally competent organisation not only tries to adapt itself to diverse cultures of those whom they serve. They also induct such cultural diversity within their ranks by employing people from diverse cultures so that it becomes almost natural for the organisation to automatically adapt to practices prevalent in far off countries. (Cross, T.L., B.J. Bazron, K.W. Dennis, and M.R. Isaccs, 1983) Such a constructive approach towards overcoming the barrier

Energy and potential Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Energy and potential - Essay Example Despite the natural occurrence in the electromagnetic field, there are also human made forces for instance, the use of X-rays in hospitals. When an individual subjects an object to function he employs energy in order for the function to take place. In this connection, we can deduce that the interaction of electric and magnetic field produces a strong magnetic field (Viegas 34). It has been estimated that the electric fields act in a similar way as gravitation field. In this case, they have to involve action at a force distance. According to Newman (56-59), he noted that gravity force is a conservative force that is capable of moving an object. In a case where gravity is unable to move an object their needs to be application of energy which may impact on potential energy. Object vertical position enables the preservation of potential energy inside the object (Giordano 71-73). The position may be lost when object moves against the rule of gravitation. This calls upon the need for other energy forces to act on an object in order to perform its function. This kind of energy comes in form of work through exerting pressure in an object so as to enhance movement. In regard to this, work is done in a view to gain upon its potential energy. In this case we should note that we cannot rely on the gravitational force but also rely on external force which works on the object. objects are capable of moving from high level to low level energy but in case of moving an object from low level energy to high level energy there is need to apply the use of force which is done as a form of work (Newman 77). This case is similar in an electric field, a case which requires a charge to be moved against the natural direction. There will be need to employ energy through work. When work is applied it means that there would be an addition of potential energy upon the acted object. This natural direction takes the place

Pablo Picasso Essay Example for Free

Pablo Picasso Essay Every artist demonstrates their thoughts and point of view of nature and of the Earth. Their masterpieces portray their artistic identity, mastery, skills and techniques. Some of them have been the founder(s) of a particular art movement, which greatly affects other artists of the world. Pablo Picasso, one of the most renowned modern artists in history, is one of the pioneers of Cubism, along with Georges Braque, who strongly exemplifies and reveals the mentioned art movement and style in his Les Demoiselles D’Avignon, The Guernica and the Three Musician, each of which would be formally evaluated and analyzed. The artistic intelligence of Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) created a great impact in the development of modern and contemporary art. His masterpieces include over 20,000 works including paintings, drawings, sculptures, theater sets, prints, ceramics and costumes that delineate a number of intellectual, social, political, and ardent messages. His styles has gone beyond and transcended realism and abstraction, Cubism, Expressionism, Surrealism and Neoclassicism. Pablo Picasso was born at Malaga Spain in October 25, 1881 to Jose Ruiz Blasco and Maria Picasso Y Lopez. At the age of eight, he started to paint but his drawings were very much different from the children of his age. Even when he was young, Picasso already had a highly systematic approach to art. At the end of 1897, he studied in Madrid but later on, he dropped out of school because his teachers could not help him solve the technical problems he had. Furthermore, he endeavored to become a Classical painter similar to Rembrandt or Velasquez; however, no matter how good he was at the age of 16, still he could not contest the old masters. In the year 1899 and 1900, his style was altered radically. His works showed a more romantic manner. Since then, he began to flourish, absorbing all the dominant styles of his epoch. Nevertheless, it was in between 1907 and 1914 in Paris when he discovered a new style by which the French art critic Louis Vauxcelles referred as â€Å"Cubism. † His masterpiece entitled Les Demoiselles D’Avignon divulged that style in 1907. Picasso’s Les Demoiselles D’Avignon expresses and exhibits his ground-breaking style and distortion which is anchored from African Art. In the painting, the figures are arranged similar to Cezanne’s composition of bathers but it reveals an influence of primitivism. It manifests through the angular planes and well-defined outlines that create the entire solidity of the images. Moreover, it is composed of five females, all of which are depicted with angular body. The color of the figures are not confined to flesh rather there are red, blue and orange. The title of the painting, which is given by Picasso’s friend, pertains to the cabaret or maison publique on the Avignon Street, Barcelona. It showcases an expression of violence and barbaric intensity of the five women. On the other hand, his Guernica articulates the same form but it is more meaningful and more caricature in style. The themes signify death, bullfight and crucifixion. The figures are more complex as well as the content of the painting, which is illustrated by diverse and mixing images. The painting itself is a representation of the tragic events that occurred in Spain during the year 1937. It is full of political message and thus, summons the very idea of warfare as a heroic incident and renders it as a cruel and atrocious act of self-destruction. However, Picasso’s art possesses a trademark that any symbol can portray many and frequently contradicting meanings. According to Picasso when asked to explain the symbols, â€Å"It isn’t up to the painter to define the symbols. Otherwise it would be better if he wrote them out in so many words. The public who look at the picture must interpret the symbols as they understand them. † Another painting that depicts Cubism is the Three Musicians. It is a large painting with three figures made up of geometric shapes. The central figure is a Harlequin playing a guitar while on his sides are two musicians. On the left part, is a visible figure of a dog. The work delineates a lively appearance due to its color, orange dominates the plane. The images are figuratively rendered but it can be pulled that they are people with musical instruments with them. They are painted in a way similar to a group performing on stage. Pablo Picasso’s style known as Cubism, as well as his masterpieces, has contributed much to the depiction and understanding of abstract art and modernism. His works portray figurative images wherein every art objects is dominated by symbols that carry a myriad of interpretations and meanings. Because of his discovery of Cubism, paintings have appeared to be a three-dimensional picture plane. His works exhibit harmonious colors and biomorphic sensuality which is exemplified in his Les Demoiselles D’Avignon. Moreover, Picasso paints in such a way that is very much different from other well-known artists of his time because he does not employ in his works landscapes or well-depicted everyday scenes. He upholds in his artistic career his identity of not copying nature and not utilizing traditional techniques, and perspectives. He learns to emphasize his viewpoints of the world through geometry, lively utilization of colors, and somehow calculated perspectives. He demonstrates his activism and political comprehension through symbols too and it is evident in his Guernica. Furthermore, because of his artistic career, identity and discovered style (Cubism), he had been renowned in the world of art. Bibliography â€Å"Guernica: Testimony of War.† (2008). Public Broadcasting Service. Database online. Available from http://www. pbs. org/treasuresoftheworld/guernica/gmain. html. [06 April 2009] Harris, Mark. â€Å"Guernica. † (1996). Web. org. uk. Database online. Available from http://web. org. uk/picasso/guernica. html. [06 April 2009] â€Å"Pablo Picasso, Life and Work,† (n. d). Pablo Picasso Cubism. Database online. Available from http://pablo-picasso. paintings. name/biography/. [06 April 2009] â€Å"Pablo Picasso Painting. † (n. d). Artquotes. net. Database online. Available from http://www. artquotes. net/masters/picasso/pablo_musicians1921. htm. [06 April 2009] Rewald, Sabine. â€Å"Cubism. † (2004). Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History. New York: Metropolitan Museum of Art. Database online. Available from http://www. metmuseum. org/toah/hd/cube/hd_cube. htm. [06 April 2009] Voorhies, James. â€Å"Pablo Picasso (1881-1973). † (2004). Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History. New York: Metropolitan Museum of Art. Database online. Available from http://www. metmuseum. org/toah/hd/pica/hd_pica. htm [06 April 2009]

How the Police Access Data to Obtain Criminal Information Essay Example for Free

How the Police Access Data to Obtain Criminal Information Essay Advancement in technology has completely changed the way in which law enforcement agents obtain information, organize and make use of that information (Foster, 2005). Foster (2005) states that technology has enhanced the use of information both in strategic and tactical sense. Scientific criminal investigation is one of the earliest methods of obtaining information concerning crime and criminals. Fingerprint classification is a very good example of scientific criminal investigation. Information technology has greatly enhanced the use of fingerprints in criminal investigation (Foster, 2005). Interviewing is the other method used by law enforcement agents to obtain information. Uncle Bob was asked a few questions by the law enforcement officer in order to collect information concerning his name, address and driving license number. All information concerning criminal activities of an individual, collected by law enforcement and which law enforcement officers have access to, is taken as privileged information (Foster, 2005). This implies that this information is for official use only. Law enforcement agencies have general access to a wide range of information of the common man that is confidential and protected by law. The information retained by law enforcement agencies runs the spectrum from crime reports to personnel records (Pattavina, 2005). Police officers gather a great deal of information, which they preserve for a long time. Majority of the law enforcement agencies in the United States have computerized files and criminal records. This implies that most of the law enforcement officers in the country have access to computerized criminal histories (Pattavina, 2005). Criminal justice information systems contain all information collected in and used in the criminal justice system. This information include: state drivers’ license records, privately gathered information and personal data in addition to court transcripts of testimony. Police records on the other hand deal with information gathered, preserved as well as organized by the police (Foster, 2005). A fully integrated law enforcement record management system has the capacity to access to all other records preserved by different criminal justice organizations. The Florida police department was able to obtain information concerning the weight, height, and criminal history of uncle Bob because its record management system is fully integrated. A fully integrated record management system is made up of various smaller systems whose main role is to exchange information with a master server (Foster, 2005). Law enforcement management system, as stated by Pattavina (2005), is a comprehensive system that allows for the capture in addition to transmission of information from a wide range of sources and also allows for different types of information queries in addition to bridging law enforcement agencies to outside sources of information (Foster, 2005). Law enforcement agencies make use of the internet to exchange information on matters of national security (Pattavina, 2005). Miami Police Department obtained criminal and personal information of uncle Bob through the internet. Communication between the police officer in the field and his agency was enhanced by the fact that law enforcement officers can access a wide range of reference manuals as well as policy in searchable online databases (Foster, 2005). The internet is one of the major technology developments that supplements law enforcement communication schemes. Uncle Bob is likely to be charged with over speeding. It can therefore be concluded that advancement in technology has completely changed the way in which law enforcement agents obtain information, organize and make use of information. Interviewing is one of the major approaches employed by law enforcement agents to gather information. Communication between law enforcement officers in the field with their agencies as well as between different criminal justice organizations is enhanced by integration of Internet in communication system.

Threat from Naturalised Wildflowers on Roadside Verges

Threat from Naturalised Wildflowers on Roadside Verges The Threat from Naturalised Wildflowers used on Roadside Verges for Native Forests and Agriculture. The naturalised vascular species of flora throughout New Zealand at present has similar totals to the native species (Williams Cameron, 2006), and newly naturalised species are being discovered at an increasing rate (Howell, 2008). Approximately 19% of all naturalised species are presently recorded as environmental weeds (Howell, 2008). Unfortunately, these statistics can, incorrectly, give the impression that New Zealand environments are inundated with an abundance of diverse weeds. Rather, the majority of naturalised plants, together with weeds, still inhabit a mere fraction of the wild-land habitats throughout New Zealand (Williams Wiser, 2004). In the centuries to come, it is predicted that weeds and other naturalised floras will increasingly occupancy areas of New Zealand, even for millenniums as has appeared to have occurred with Europe’s naturalised plants (Pysek Jarosik, 2005). The general origins of naturalised flora species were as decorative garden and feature pl ants (Howell, 2008), as such they commonly are present near human settlements (Timmins Williams, 1991). When random wild-land sites were surveyed few, if any, environmental weed species are generally found (Sullivan, Williams, Timmins, 2006). This suggests that environmental weeds are generally in the initial stages of infiltration into New Zealand’s environments, thus, there is an opportunity to curb further dispersal. Methods of long distance dispersal differ among environmental weed and naturalised flora species, however, the planting and sowing of naturalised flora species, particularly the wildflower varieties, on roadside verges both facilitates the establishment and acts as corridors for the dispersal agents of these species, for instance stock, people, and vehicles (Overton, Smale, Whaley, Fitzgerald, McGlone, 2002). It has been estimated that the naturalised flora species which are present along roadsides are disproportionately early naturalisations that were originally stock-dispersed, and from either or both recent or current agricultural use. The total richness of naturalised flora species on roadside verges can be reflective of habitat and aspects of the neighbouring land use (Ullman, Bannister, Wilson, 1998). Roadside verges, as well as riparian margins and various other ‘waste’ areas, contain patches of wild habitats that can act as reservoirs for naturalised flora species in what is otherwise intensively managed rural environments. However, some studies are indecisive when it comes to naturalised flora species utilising roadside verges as linear dispersal corridors autonomously of the neighbouring land. Rather, naturalised flora populations along roadside verges generally imitate the adjacent land and the naturalised flora communities present on that land. However, there wil l certainly be exceptions to this rule. One example in New Zealand is the Kaffir lily (Schizostylis coccinea) present in mid-Canterbury. This lily is spreading beside roads utilising the irrigation ditches (Webb, Sykes, Garnock-Jones, 1988). Roadside verges present an unusual, generally uninterrupted continuity of a mono-habitat. Given the variety of wild habitats that roads pass through, it is thought that this is indicative of a present absence of nearby sources that can be used for the purpose of propagating, or a propagule, for these species in the area. The role of propagule pressure at local scales in species distributions is well detailed by Levine (2001) in a related riparian structure (Levine, 2001). However, it is vague as to whether various ornamental naturalised flora species that are restricted to roadside verges could maintain their populations without the support of propagules from proximate cultivated sources, especially when it comes to competition from species that are more abundant, such as pastoral grasses, which disperse onto the roadside verges from the neighbouring land. Regardless of the typical dominance of species from neighbouring environments, roadside verges are not merely expansions of adjacent habitats (Angold, 1997) (Parendes Jones, 2000). Roadside verges are frequently continuously disturbed and possess altered soil conditions, particularly in close proximity to the traffic lane. They typically have high light availability, specifically verges next to high-traffic roads (Parendes Jones, 2000). This makes the proximal roadside zone a highly specialised habitat, which in the temperate zones of the Southern Hemisphere is normally occupied by ruderal, or pioneer, flora species generally originating in Eurasia, but they vary with regards to local climatic conditions (Wilson, Rapson, Sykes, Watkins, Williams, 1992). Over in Australia, tropical grasses often establish on roadside verges and before spreading into neighbouring open woodland (Amor Stevens, 1976). Generally, woody varieties of naturalised flora are more uncommon on roadside verges than herbaceous species; however, species such as pines and eucalypts (Healey, 1969) can be frequent on roadside verges, provided there is consistent available moisture and low disturbance rates. Such species as Cotoneaster spp. tend to be most common on roadside batters, which are generally less disturbed by roadside maintenance than the flat areas (Sullivan, Williams, Timmins, Smale, 2009). Naturalised plant species that are present on roadside verges can endure there as wild populations, yet they still may not infiltrate into the surrounding areas of agriculture and native environments. It is possible that filtering effects may be especially strong in climatically severe locations, even where the neighbouring short flora could give the impression that it is open to invasion. Herbaceous roadside naturalised flora are likely to be ephemerals, and are not able to penetrate neighbouring native vegetation, whereas successful invaders are inclined to be less ephemeral (Winqvist, 2003) and functionally similar to native species (Godfree, Lepschi, Mallinson, 2004). When it comes to prairie flora with a mix of native and naturalised ruderal species, the naturalised species are more likely to occur on roadsides than the native species (Larson, 2002). It is possible that similar patterns occur within New Zealand; however, ruderal species either native (Wardle, 1991) or naturalis ed on roadside verges are uncommon. On the other hand, where filtering effects are not as strong, the distribution of naturalised flora along roadside verges may alternatively suggest the initial stages of an invasion into the adjacent flora. In Europe, herbaceous flora could possibly be invaded from 50 to 100m from the roadside verge (Tyser Worley, 1992) and non-native evergreen woody species in the United States, invaded deciduous forests 120m from the roadside verge plantings (Foreman Deblinger, 2000). The effects of planting roadside verges with naturalised plants is exemplified in a study conducted by Sullivan, Williams, Timmins, Smale (2009) regarding the extent of Russell lupins (Lupinus polyphyllus) which has spread from gravelly roadside verges of the Mackenzie Basin into the adjacent degraded tussock grassland, riverbeds will also function similar to roads as key linear corridors for the spreading of plants (Sullivan, Williams, Timmins, Smale, 2009). In other circumstances, the discrepancy between naturalised flora on roadside verges and the neighbouring flora may be rather noticeable. Ruderal species are often limited to roadside verges or, for brief distances, into the neighbouring disturbed woodland in environments both different (Wester Juvik, 1983) and comparable to New Zealand (Pauchard Alaback, 2004). Whilst generally the Eurasian ruderal species do not establish within New Zealand forests, and it is more likely that the roadside verges will be invaded by shrubs and vines that possess comparable features to the native flora present (Williams, Nicol, Newfield, 2001). Within New Zealand naturalised flora on roadside verges are influenced by both climatic and altitudinal gradients (Wilson, Rapson, Sykes, Watkins, Williams, 1992) (Ullman, Bannister, Wilson, 1995). As the environmental responses are comparable to the responses documented in Europe, it has been recommended that establishment of all obtainable roadside verge sites by the naturalised species has occurred, regardless of the comparatively short time-span since their introduction to New Zealand (Ullman, Bannister, Wilson, 1995). However, this is unlikely to be true for all naturalised flora within New Zealand as generally there is a strong correlation concerning the time from naturalisation and habitation on roadside verges, as well as for the reason that there are numerous new naturalisations found on roadside verges (Williams Cameron, 2006). Roadside verges regularly offer the primary and closest opportunity for naturalised plants to establish past the restrictions of agriculture in what is an intensively managed landscape. 25% of recent naturalisations between 1989 and 2000 were gathered from roadside verges (Williams Cameron, 2006); though in part this is because of some sampling bias. The formation of an environment which naturalised flora will find favourable initiates with the construction of the road itself (Greenberg, Crownover, Gordon, 1997). A frequent effect of road construction is an elevation in the levels of the water-table on roadsides which aids the establishment of naturalised flora particularly in wetlands (Buckley, Crow, Nauertz, Schulz, 2003), whereas in more arid areas, the runoff delivers water and/or nutrients which then promotes the growth of naturalised flora (Williams Groves, 1980) more so than with natives (Angold, 1997). More often than not in New Zealand (Ullman, Bannister, Wilson, 1998), as well as in other parts of the world, naturalised grass species are some of the more commonplace roadside verge species (Tyser Worley, 1992), as the altered environment and roadside management is beneficial for them, more so than some of the other naturalised plant species, for instance woody species (Angold, 1997). In Westland, New Zealand, within the pakihi vegetation, the construction of roads has assisted the establishment and coverage of naturalised species by altering drainage patterns (as is the case with Carex ovalis) as well as increasing nutrient availability due to the soil disturbance (as with Holcus lanatus) (Williams, Courtney, Glenny, Hall, Mew, 1990). Roads themselves offer a way of accessing the land for a variety of modes of transportation from large vehicles to animals, and all may transport the seeds of various flora which are then deposited either haphazardly or specifically in various locations. Thus, it is possible for a species to invade more rapidly along roadside verges than across the landscape overall (Guthrie-Smith, 1953). This is indicated by the naturalised flora diversity and abundance found along the more developed roads (Tyser Worley, 1992) where the volume of traffic is greater, though the more developed roads may also possess a more altered and more regularly disturbed habitat along the roadside verge, as well as a higher density of human habitations. A mode of dispersal for various seeds and whole seed heads is the capability to be transported via some form of attachment, particularly to vehicles, specifically the smaller seeds which can be transported by the tyres of vehicles and in the soil itself that is a dhered to them (Schmidt, 1989). As a result, the seeds present on vehicles can originate from various habitats, and a small number of these species, comparatively, are found on roadside verges, yet the seeds of most naturalised species found on roadside verges are also persent on vehicles (Schmidt, 1989). Vehicles are capable of transporting not just the small seeds of naturalised flora species, which are more commonly than not grass species, but urban garden species as well which are generally wind dispersed (for instance Buddleja davidii) or dispersed via animals (such as Pyracantha spp.) (Wardle, 1991). The manner in which vehicles act as dispersal agents can be of particular concern to managers of natural areas, for example, in Kakadu National Park, they have found the seeds of roadside weeds in the tyres as well as the mud on vehicles (Lonsdale Lane, 1994). Unfortunately, a traditional method of washing cars is merely cosmetic, and does nothing to stop the spread of naturalised species via vehicles. As a result it is improbable that something can be done regarding seeds on private vehicles except in special circumstances, the most effective method to protect sensitive areas is to keep vehicles out altogether (Parendes Jones, 2000). Alternatively the approach of disregarding the dispersal vectors altogether and focusing on discovering the originating populations of naturalised species in sensitive areas (Lonsdale Lane, 1994) is possibly the best tactic in New Zealand, however, this may be unreasonable for locating naturalised species that have been spread by four-wheel-drive or ‘off road’ vehicles on tracks away from established roads. People who not only use roads but also the methods employed to maintain roads, principally the use ‘slashers’ on the roadside, are significant vectors for dispersal of naturalised species on roadside verges. Naturalised flora species are particularly dependent on these practices for their vegetative spread, species such as domestic hops (Humulus lupulus) within the Buller catchment, Nelson (Sullivan, Williams, Timmins, Smale, 2009). However, domestic stock is still the primary vector responsible for the dispersal of naturalised agricultural seed species in other parts of the world (Tyser Worley, 1992) (Pauchard Alaback, 2004), because they were preceded the introduction of stock transportation vehicles in New Zealand (Guthrie-Smith, 1953). While currently stock droving is not really practised within New Zealand, it is still possible for stock to disperse the seeds of naturalised species when they get transferred around (Tyser Worley, 1992). For naturalised species of flora to be actively planted and sowed on roadside verges, for the use in methods such as erosion control and even via the dumping of garden waste, has resulted in some significant invasions of flora, for example in the United States, Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) was used on roadside verges for erosion control and bank stabilisation. However, it quickly became a problem due to its rapid growth rate and capability to displace native plant species (Williams, Timmins, Smith, Downey, 2001). Japanese honeysuckle is also a problem in New Zealand (DOC, 2014). Russell lupin (Lupinus polyphyllus) is another species commonly found on roadside verges throughout New Zealand and presents a threat to native areas. As they are an aggressive species presenting a particular threat to Canterburys braided riverbeds, with the potential impacts it could have these ecosystems. Roadside verges are among the areas of habitat suitable for use by environmental weeds and naturalised flora species as they advance their invasions into areas of natural vegetation within New Zealand’s landscape. Consequently, the protection of New Zealand’s sensitive and valuable conservation reserves from invasion by environmental weeds and naturalised flora species would definitely be advantaged by the control of planting and sowing roadside verges with naturalised wildflowers, particularly when used in combination with other weed control methods in neighbouring habitats that would be suitable for naturalised species. Carrie Page